The total, which is a ten percent increase over the previous year, represents a year-long fundraising effort by thousands of individuals and more than 135 corporate and community partners. The telethon event raised $270,468 in donations that were made by phone, mail and online. During the telethon, current and former patients and their families also shared their inspiring stories.

Gifts to Children’s Miracle Network support innovative equipment, family-centered programs and transformative research at Penn State Children’s Hospital. Since 1984, Children’s Miracle Network has raised more than $69 million to benefit the Children’s Hospital.

“This extraordinary support from our generous community ensures that Penn State Children’s Hospital can continue to provide the most advanced care to children facing serious health challenges,” said Dr. Craig Hillemeier, dean of Penn State College of Medicine, chief executive officer of Penn State Health, and Penn State’s senior vice president for health affairs. “This month, we are starting construction of three additional floors to our children’s hospital. We are grateful that Children’s Miracle Network continues to play a vital role in ensuring that kids and their families have access to world class care right here in central Pennsylvania, close to home and to the people they love.”